Here, high tech and modern cities are abound, yet many traditional structures and ancient practices are still well preserved.

For instance, you can head to a ryokan, sleep on futons and tatami mats, as well as live in wooden halls with bathhouses. You can also enjoy the best matcha, watch a Kyoto geisha dance, all the while marveling at the beauty of Mt Fuji.

However, despite its reputation of being an extremely safe place, there are still tourist targeted scams and crime around.

Tsunamis: signs include abnormal ocean activity and load roars. Protect yourself from an earthquake first if there is one. Else, get to a high ground as far inland as possible.

Volcanic eruption: avoid areas downwind and river valleys downstream of the volcano, do not drive in heavy ash fall, seek shelter (if no need to evacuate) or high ground if no shelter (crouch down away from volcano, cover head with arms).

4. Transport safety

How it works:

Roads are well maintained and driving here is safe, though some factors to watch out for:

Not knowing Japanese may hinder understanding of road signs.

Congested city traffic.

Narrow roads, no legal roadside parking though many are illegally parked curbside and blocks traffic partially.

As for public transportation:

Subway, trains and bus networks are well developed, safe and convenient.